The ultimate comfort food, these Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells combine tender pasta shells with a flavorful filling of seasoned beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. All of this is baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce, creating a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special family meal, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. The blend of creamy and savory flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired feast!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked ground beef until evenly combined.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, then arrange them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 4
Origins and Inspiration
Stuffed shells are a beloved Italian-American dish that brings comfort and elegance to the dinner table. This dish originated from the traditional Italian recipes for filled pasta, such as ravioli or cannelloni, but was adapted in the United States to use large pasta shells for convenience and presentation. The combination of creamy ricotta, seasoned ground beef, and rich marinara sauce creates a satisfying meal that has become a family favorite worldwide.
Customizations
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. For added protein, try crumbled tofu or lentils.
- Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella or mix in other cheeses like asiago, provolone, or fontina for a richer flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sprinkle them on top of the marinara sauce for a little kick.
- Alternative Sauces: Swap the marinara for a creamy Alfredo sauce or a tangy arrabbiata sauce for a different flavor profile.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini pair wonderfully with this dish.
- Wine Pairing: A robust red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the flavors of the beef and cheese. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or basil.
Tips for Success
- Prevent Shells from Sticking: After boiling, rinse the shells with cold water and toss them with a bit of olive oil to keep them from sticking together.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Freezing: These stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe dish, cover with sauce, and wrap tightly. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding about 20 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
The Beauty of Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
This recipe is a true comfort food classic, combining the heartiness of ground beef with the luxurious creaminess of ricotta cheese. The jumbo pasta shells serve as the perfect vessel, holding the rich filling while being bathed in a savory marinara sauce. Topped with bubbly mozzarella cheese, this dish delivers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
- Perfecting the Filling:
- Ensure the ground beef is cooked evenly and broken into fine crumbles. This helps create a smooth and cohesive filling.
- Allow the cooked beef to cool slightly before mixing with the ricotta and egg to prevent curdling.
- Ideal Pasta Shells:
- Cook the shells al dente, as they will continue to soften during baking. Overcooking may cause them to tear.
- Handle the shells gently when stuffing to maintain their shape.
- Sauce Selection:
- While marinara is a classic choice, you can elevate the dish by using a homemade tomato sauce infused with fresh basil and garlic.
- For a creamier variation, mix a splash of heavy cream into the marinara before layering.
- Cheese Melting:
- Cover the dish with foil for the first half of the baking time to keep the shells moist and allow the cheese to melt evenly.
- Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to create a golden, bubbly top layer.
Variations to Try
- Meat-Free Delight:
Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian version. - Seafood Twist:
Use cooked shrimp or crab meat mixed with ricotta and Parmesan for a seafood-inspired stuffed shell dish. - Herb and Spice Boost:
Add fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the filling for a burst of herbal freshness. A dash of smoked paprika can add depth. - Low-Carb Option:
Swap the pasta shells for zucchini or eggplant slices, rolling the filling inside and layering with marinara for a stuffed rollatini-style dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells with simple sides to create a balanced and complete meal:
- Salads: A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad.
- Sides: Garlic knots, crusty bread, or steamed asparagus for a touch of greens.
- Drinks: A robust red wine like Merlot or Chianti enhances the dish’s flavors. Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with a hint of lemon are equally refreshing.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Freezing:
- Assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish, but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Benefits
While indulgent, this dish provides a good balance of macronutrients:
- Protein: From the ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese.
- Calcium: High in dairy-based calcium for strong bones.
- Carbohydrates: The pasta shells provide energy, making it a satisfying main course.
Fun Facts and History
- Why Jumbo Shells?
- Jumbo shells, or “conchiglioni,” are specifically designed for stuffing, making them a popular choice in Italian-American cuisine. Their ridged surface helps hold onto sauces and fillings.
- The Evolution of Ricotta:
- Ricotta cheese traces its origins to ancient Italy, where it was made using leftover whey from other cheeses. Its name means “re-cooked,” referring to the cheese-making process.
- A Dish for Celebrations:
- Stuffed shells are often served during family gatherings, holidays, or Sunday dinners, symbolizing abundance and care in Italian households.
Conclusion
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With tender pasta, a rich beef and ricotta filling, and bubbly mozzarella, it’s a classic recipe that’s easy to customize and sure to impress. Simple yet satisfying, this dish is a timeless favorite that brings everyone together. Enjoy!